Father's Day: Fathers After God’s Heart

FATHER'S DAY: FATHERS AFTER GOD’S HEART

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 6:1-4

Supporting Texts: Genesis 18:19, Proverbs 20:7, Psalm 103:13, Malachi 4:6, Luke 15:20-24

INTRODUCTION:

Fatherhood is one of the most significant roles given by God to humanity. It is more than a biological title; it is a divine calling with responsibility, influence, and eternal impact. The role of a father is meant to reflect God’s own nature—loving, guiding, correcting, providing, and protecting. Yet, in our world today, fatherhood is often misunderstood, undervalued, or ignored.

As we celebrate Father’s Day, it is a moment to reflect on what it means to be a godly father, to appreciate the gift of fatherhood, and to examine our relationships with the men who play fatherly roles in our lives. It is also a call to fathers to rise and fulfil their purpose with courage, love, and faith.

This message aims to inspire, instruct, and restore honour to the office of fatherhood. Whether you are a father, a child, or someone who has been mentored by a father figure, God’s Word today will bring encouragement and clarity to your heart.

1. GODLY FATHERS PROVIDE SPIRITUAL DIRECTION

a) Leading their families in the fear of God (Genesis 18:19):

Abraham was chosen because he would command his household after God. A father must be the spiritual compass of his home.

b) Teaching the Word of God consistently (Deuteronomy 6:6-7):

Fathers must instil God's Word into their children through daily teaching and example.

c) Being a prayer warrior for the home (Job 1:5):

Job regularly interceded for his children. Godly fathers must stand in the gap for their families.

d) Modeling faith and obedience (Hebrews 11:7):

Like Noah, a father’s actions can save a generation.

Biblical Example: Abraham led his family spiritually and God counted it as righteousness (Genesis 18:19).

2. GODLY FATHERS WALK IN INTEGRITY

a) Their character speaks louder than their words (Proverbs 20:7):

Children often follow what they observe in their fathers.

b) Living with honesty in all dealings (Psalm 15:2):

A godly father avoids compromise, teaching his children truthfulness.

c) Keeping promises and commitments (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5):

Integrity is demonstrated in the way a father honours his word.

d) Practising fairness and justice (Micah 6:8):

Fathers must not show partiality or provoke their children.

Biblical Example: Joseph, the husband of Mary, was a just man who obeyed God without hesitation (Matthew 1:19-24).

3. GODLY FATHERS EXPRESS COMPASSION AND DISCIPLINE

a) God disciplines those He loves (Hebrews 12:7-11):

True love involves correction, not indulgence.

b) A father should not provoke his children to anger (Ephesians 6:4):

Discipline must be balanced with love and understanding.

c) Showing mercy and kindness (Psalm 103:13):

As a father pities his children, so the Lord pities those who fear Him.

d) Being emotionally present and available:

A father must not be distant or absent but should nurture his children.

Biblical Example: The father of the prodigal son forgave, embraced, and celebrated his returning child (Luke 15:20-24).

4. GODLY FATHERS PASS ON A GODLY LEGACY

a) Investing spiritually in the next generation (2 Timothy 1:5):

Legacy is built not in possessions, but in impartation.

b) Establishing generational blessings (Psalm 112:1-2):

A righteous father ensures his seed is mighty upon the earth.

c) Speaking life and destiny over children (Genesis 49:1-28):

Fathers shape the future by their declarations.

d) Living purposefully with eternity in view (Proverbs 13:22):

The best inheritance is a godly example and legacy.

Biblical Example: David’s legacy of worship and obedience shaped Solomon’s early reign (1 Kings 3:6).

5. GODLY FATHERS PROMOTE RECONCILIATION AND PEACE

a) Turning the hearts of children to their fathers (Malachi 4:6):

God desires unity and peace in families.

b) Asking for forgiveness when needed:

A godly father is humble and ready to restore broken relationships.

c) Creating an atmosphere of love and trust (Colossians 3:21):

Peace flourishes in a home where love reigns.

d) Encouraging children to find and fulfil purpose (Jeremiah 29:11):

Fathers are destiny-guides.

Biblical Example: Jacob reconciled with his son Joseph after years of separation, bringing healing and restoration (Genesis 46:29-30).

CONCLUSION:

Fathers are more than just family heads; they are divine stewards of destiny. Their words, actions, and presence shape generations. God has given fathers the authority to bless, lead, correct, and nurture. This Father's Day is a call to reaffirm the dignity and duty of fatherhood.

As we honour fathers today, may we also rise to support, pray for, and walk with them. Let every father be inspired to be more like God the Father, and let every child learn to honour and appreciate the fathers God has placed in their lives.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Thank You, Lord, for the gift and responsibility of fatherhood.

2. Raise up fathers who will fear You and lead their homes in righteousness.